Directions

1. Bring salmon to room temperature 10 minutes before cooking. Toast sesame seeds in a small, dry skillet over medium heat, stirring and tossing, until fragrant and golden, about 4 minutes. Pour into a small bowl and cool.

3. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Season salmon with salt and pepper. Add remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to pan; Increase heat to medium high. Place salmon, skin side up, in pan. Cook, without moving, until golden brown, about 4 minutes. Turn fillets over using a metal spatula and cook until firm to touch, about 3 more minutes. Transfer to plates or a platter and serve warm with cucumber salad.